Medical Physics
The Master of Science in Medical Physics is a two-year, full-time graduate program that merges fundamental physics with medical applications to advance healthcare diagnostics and treatment. This interdisciplinary field equips students with the knowledge and tools to apply quantitative physics principles in clinical environments, particularly in radiology, nuclear medicine, and radiation oncology. The program provides rigorous training in medical imaging, radiation therapy physics, anatomy, and radiobiology, while also fostering a strong foundation in computational methods and instrumentation.
Students benefit from an integrated curriculum combining theoretical study with clinical experience through hospital-based practicums and laboratory training. With access to modern technology and guidance from experienced medical physicists, students develop competencies in treatment planning, quality assurance, and patient safety. The program prepares graduates for further professional certification and positions them to contribute meaningfully to precision medicine and advanced cancer therapies, making it an essential step for those aiming to impact lives through science and innovation.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Medical Physics
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Physics
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
- Foundations of Medical Physics
- Radiation Therapy Physics I
- Human Anatomy for Medical Physicists
- Radiation Detection and Measurement
Semester 2
- Medical Imaging Fundamentals
- Radiation Therapy Physics II
- Radiobiology and Radiation Protection
- Clinical Laboratory I
Semester 3
- MRI and Ultrasound Physics
- Treatment Planning Systems and Dosimetry
- Nuclear Medicine Imaging
- Clinical Laboratory II
Semester 4
- Advanced Topics in Medical Physics
- Quality Assurance and Safety in Radiation Therapy
- Clinical Internship and Project
- Medical Physics Seminar Series
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for dynamic careers in hospitals, cancer treatment centers, diagnostic imaging facilities, research laboratories, and governmental health agencies. Many go on to become certified clinical medical physicists, specializing in radiation therapy, diagnostic radiology, or nuclear medicine. With their expertise, they are responsible for ensuring the safe and effective use of radiation in medicine, developing treatment plans, calibrating equipment, and improving imaging techniques. Others pursue doctoral study, academic research, or leadership roles in healthcare innovation. As demand grows for technology-driven healthcare solutions, medical physicists are increasingly valued for their ability to bridge science and clinical care.
Why Choose This Program
This program is the ideal path for individuals passionate about healthcare technology, applied physics, and real-world impact. It offers a unique opportunity to engage deeply with both the theoretical and clinical sides of medical science, providing hands-on experience in settings where patient outcomes depend on technical precision. Students benefit from close mentorship by leading professionals and exposure to advanced clinical equipment and software. With its strong focus on both research and practice, this program empowers graduates to not only enter high-demand roles but also to shape the future of medical diagnostics and therapy with science-backed solutions and a commitment to patient safety.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
